Tag Archives: religion

28Mar/24

Eight ways to be in the world but not of it

March 28, 2024Weekly BlogAmerican values, children, Community engagement, faith in God, hard work, marriage, patriotism, religion, study, toleranceJeff Hagen

A year ago, The Wall Street Journal and NORC at the University of Chicago (National Opinion Research Center) published a study exploring Americans’ perceptions of themselves, their future, and their values. https://www.wsj.com/articles/americans-are-losing-faith-in-college-education-wsj-norc-poll-finds-3a836ce1

Let’s examine the findings related to what could be termed “traditional American values.”

Antidotes to the Secularization of Urban Men

March 14, 2024Weekly BlogBeliefs, differences, lifestyle, religion, rural, secularism, sociology, urban, urbanization, valuesJeff Hagen

In the United States, the distinction between urban and rural populations has been a topic of interest for sociologists and researchers for decades. The differences in lifestyle, values, and beliefs between these two groups have been well documented. One significant difference is the level of secularization, with urban men generally exhibiting higher levels of secular attitudes and beliefs compared to their rural counterparts. Historically, urbanization has been associated with a decline in religious adherence. For example, the Industrial Revolution in the 19th century saw a significant shift in population from rural to urban areas, accompanied by a decline in church attendance and religious affiliation.

When Helplessness Becomes Power

October 13, 2023Weekly Blogabundant life, Freedom, God's grace, performance, religion, righteousness, spiritual helplessness, spiritual journey, Spirituality, trust in ChristJeff Hagen

When we place our trust in Christ for personal forgiveness and righteousness (a right relationship with God), we embark on a spiritual journey. Along this path, our aim is to taste the freedom of approaching God on His terms, without the need for our own performance. For many, this promising start is succeeded by years of striving to lead a spiritual life. Why? I believe it’s because a part of our inner makeup is inherently religious. “Religion” revolves around my endeavors to please God. Genuine spirituality revolves around my relationship with God through Christ, given freely and received freely.

Tag: religion